Enolase
Enolase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the glycolysis pathway, which is the process by which cells convert glucose into energy. It catalyzes the conversion of 2-phosphoglycerate to phosphoenolpyruvate, facilitating the production of ATP, the energy currency of the cell. Enolase is found in various organisms, including bacteria, plants, and animals.
This enzyme exists in multiple forms, known as isoenzymes, which can vary in different tissues. In humans, the three main isoforms are alpha-enolase, beta-enolase, and gamma-enolase. Each isoform has specific functions and is expressed in different tissues, contributing to various metabolic processes.